FG Reaffirms Commitment to Strengthening Hydrography for Maritime Security and Blue Economy Growth
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to making hydrography a national priority in order to enhance marine navigation, strengthen national defence, and promote the growth of Nigeria's blue economy.
Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammad Matawalle, stated this while receiving the newly appointed Hydrographer of the Federation and Chief Executive Officer of the National Hydrographic Agency, Rear Admiral O.O. Fadahunsi, and his management team during a courtesy visit in Abuja.
Dr. Matawalle said the Renewed Hope Administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains fully committed to supporting the National Hydrographic Agency and improving Nigeria's hydrographic capabilities to provide critical data for maritime operations.
According to the Minister, the Agency plays a strategic role in advancing Nigeria's maritime capabilities and those of the Gulf of Guinea by promoting the sustainable use of ocean resources, facilitating maritime trade, and driving economic growth through innovative hydrographic solutions.
He noted that discussions during the meeting focused on expanding Nigeria's hydrographic capacity to improve navigational safety, strengthen maritime security, and support sustainable maritime development.
The Minister added that with existing policy frameworks, Nigeria is well positioned to play a leading role in advancing hydrography across West Africa.
In his remarks, the Hydrographer of the Federation and Chief Executive Officer of the National Hydrographic Agency, Rear Admiral Fadahunsi, commended the Minister for his leadership and pledged the Agency's commitment to working closely with relevant ministries, departments, and agencies.
He assured that the Agency would continue to promote an integrated approach to hydrographic resilience and deliver greater results in support of national development.
By James Ezema
